It’s common knowledge that science has made remarkable, and almost miraculous, advances over the past years in the medical world. Legendary singer and composer Sir Elton John adds to this by stating “unless we love each other enough to make sure that everyone – no matter who they love, what they do, how they look or what they believe – has the resources to stay healthy and prevent further transmission of the disease, then all the science in the world will be for naught. LOVE is the ultimate solution to AIDS.â€
In line with this, the Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) partnered up with French glass and crystal piece maker Lalique to create beautiful, one of a kind glass pieces that manifest everything he feels about this cause that were auctioned off in February this year.
(Lalique Music is Love, Heart in Red Crystal and Gold Enamel)
(Elton John with the Lalique Clear Crystal and Gold Enamel Heart | Photo by Dimities Ambouris)
The collection was named “Music is Love†because of music’s universal appeal. In the same way that music recognizes no boundaries or differences, Sir Elton John reminds us of the truth that “love is one of the primary forces that can unite us and bring us together despite our differences. Indeed, love shows us that the differences dividing us from each other are ultimately very superficial, that we have so much more in common than not … This is why I believe that music and love are synonymous, that music is love.â€
An avid collector of Lalique’s creations himself, Sir Elton John was deeply touched by their commitment to the project. “Words are completely inadequate to express how very much it means to me for a company like Lalique – with such a long, rich, and highly respected tradition of excellence and craftsmanship – to support the work of the Elton John AIDS Foundation in this highly visible and collaborative way. You could simply have written us a cheque. But instead, you wanted to work with us on a project that would help raise the visibility of the foundation’s work and bring new people to our cause while also raising significant funds for our mission,†he gushed.
The Academy Awards viewing party auction held in Los Angeles on Feb. 28, which showcased four unique crystal art pieces designed and created by Elton John and Lalique, raised $410,000 USD. Specifically, a record-breaking price of $290,000 USD was achieved by the masterpiece Angel in Cire Perdue, the most expensive piece sold of all the items auctioned. 100% of the proceeds were given to the foundation.
(Lalique Music is Love, Angel in Clear Crystal with Gold Stamping)
(Sir Elton John signing the Lalique Angel in Cire Perdue piece for auction | Photo by Gilles Pernet)
(Sir Elton John with Maz Zouhairi and Silvio Denz | Photo by Michael Kovac)
